Glock 43X vs SIG P365: Complete Concealed Carry Comparison

The Glock 43X and SIG P365 represent two of the most popular concealed carry pistols on the market today. Both guns target the same segment with 10-round capacity and compact designs perfect for everyday carry.

The SIG P365 offers superior space efficiency with a one-inch grip width and more modular design options, while the Glock 43X provides a longer grip that fits larger hands better and offers Glock's proven reliability. The P365 started the micro-compact revolution in 2018, while Glock responded in 2019 with their own approach to high-capacity concealed carry.

These pistols share many similarities but differ in key areas that matter for concealed carry. The P365 vs Glock 43X comparison reveals important differences in grip design, magazine efficiency, and customization options that can influence a buyer's decision.

Key Takeaways

• The SIG P365 has a more space-efficient design with a one-inch grip width compared to the Glock 43X's 1.02-inch width

• The Glock 43X features a longer grip that accommodates larger hands better and allows magazines to drop freely

• Both pistols offer excellent reliability and accuracy for concealed carry with similar 10-round capacity

Core Specs and Size Comparison

The Glock 43X measures 6.27 inches in length while the Sig P365 comes in at 5.8 inches, making the P365 notably more compact. Both pistols weigh essentially the same at 16.5 ounces unloaded, but the P365 offers significantly higher magazine capacity options despite its smaller frame.

Dimensions and Weight

The Glock 43X is heavier and longer than the P365 in overall dimensions. The 43X stands 4.92 inches tall compared to the P365's 4.23 inches.

Length differences are more pronounced. The Glock 43X stretches 6.27 inches while the Sig P365 measures just 5.8 inches.

Weight specifications remain nearly identical:

• Unloaded: Both weigh 16.5 ounces

• Empty magazine: 43X at 18.8 oz, P365 at 18.6 oz

• Loaded magazine: 43X at 23.1 oz, P365 at 22.9 oz

The grip width matches at 1.02 inches for both models. Slide width varies slightly with the 43X at 0.86 inches and P365 at 0.9 inches.

Barrel Length and Slim Profile

The Glock 43X features a 3.41-inch barrel compared to the P365's 3.1-inch barrel. This 0.31-inch difference contributes to the 43X's longer overall length.

Both pistols maintain excellent slim profile designs for concealed carry. The single-stack configuration of the 43X creates a thinner magazine well area.

The P365's compact size makes it more efficient in terms of size while maintaining shootability. The shorter barrel doesn't significantly impact accuracy at typical defensive distances.

Magazine Capacity and Configurations

The capacity difference represents the most significant specification gap between these pistols. The Glock 43X holds 10+1 rounds with its single-stack magazine design.

The Sig P365 offers multiple capacity options: 10, 12, or 15 rounds plus one chambered. This modified double-stack configuration allows higher capacity in a compact frame.

Magazine capacity breakdown:

• Glock 43X: 10+1 rounds (single-stack only)

• Sig P365: 10+1, 12+1, or 15+1 rounds (double-stack)

The P365's magazine design shows how a smaller pistol can exceed the capacity of larger competitors. The 15-round option matches many full-size pistols while maintaining the P365's compact dimensions.

Concealment and Everyday Carry Performance

The SIG P365's smaller dimensions give it an edge in deep concealment scenarios, while the Glock 43X offers better grip control for everyday carry comfort. Both pistols work well with modern holster systems and carry methods.

Concealability and Deep Concealment

The SIG P365's compact size makes it easier to conceal under light clothing or in professional settings. At 5.8 inches long and 4.3 inches tall, it prints less than larger pistols when carried appendix or strong-side.

The Glock 43X measures 6.5 inches long and 5.04 inches tall. Its extra length can show more under fitted shirts.

Deep concealment favors the P365 due to its shorter grip and barrel. The pistol disappears better under t-shirts and business attire.

Both guns have slim profiles that work for most body types. The 43X weighs 18.7 ounces unloaded versus the P365's 17.8 ounces. This small weight difference rarely affects concealment.

Carry Methods and Holster Options

Both pistols work with most IWB holster designs and carry positions. The concealed carry market offers many quality options for each gun.

Strong-side hip carry works well for both models. The 43X's longer grip provides better control during the draw. The P365's compact size reduces bulk against the hip.

Appendix carry slightly favors the P365. Its shorter barrel length makes sitting more comfortable. The reduced printing helps in this forward position.

Pocket carry works better with the P365 due to its smaller footprint. Most cargo pockets and jacket pockets accommodate it easier than the 43X.

Popular holster brands make quality options for both guns. Kydex and leather holsters provide good retention and comfort for daily carry.

Appendix Carry and IWB Comfort

The SIG P365 works well for appendix carry due to its compact dimensions and shorter barrel. The gun sits flatter against the body and causes less discomfort when sitting.

Grip length affects comfort differently. The 43X's longer grip can dig into the body more during appendix carry. Some carriers prefer this for better purchase during the draw.

The P365's shorter grip reduces pressure points but may be harder to grab quickly. Each person's body type affects which feels better.

Both guns work with modern appendix holsters that include wedges and claws. These accessories improve comfort and concealment for either pistol.

IWB carry at 3-4 o'clock works well for both models. The 43X's slim profile slides easily behind the hip. The P365's compact size creates less bulk overall.

Ergonomics, Grip, and Handling

Both pistols offer distinct grip designs that affect comfort and control differently depending on hand size and shooting style. The Glock 43X provides better shootability with a longer grip, while the SIG P365 prioritizes compactness with its ergonomic design.

Ergonomic Grip and Hand Size Fit

The Glock 43X features a longer grip frame that accommodates larger hands more effectively. The G43X's grip is slimmer, and even with an extended pinky assist mag, people with large hands can face issues.

The Glock 43X offers a slightly taller and wider grip, standing at 5.04 inches in height and 1.1 inch in width. This provides improved control and comfort for users with medium to large hands.

The SIG P365 takes a different approach with its compact design. The P365's grip allows for a full grasp and is ideal for larger hands, despite its smaller overall dimensions.

Hand Size Recommendations:

• Small to medium hands: SIG P365 ergonomic grip design

• Medium to large hands: Glock 43X longer grip frame

• Shooters with smaller hands: Both pistols accommodate well with proper technique

Frame Modularity

The Glock 43X offers limited factory modularity but includes the Modular Optic System (MOS) variant. This system allows shooters to mount red dot sights directly to the pistol frame without custom machining.

Standard Glock 43X models use a fixed frame design with minimal customization options. The grip angle remains consistent with other Glock pistols at approximately 22 degrees.

SIG Sauer designed the P365 with a more traditional grip angle around 18 degrees. The frame itself offers limited modularity in standard configurations, though aftermarket options exist for grip modifications.

Neither pistol features interchangeable grip panels or backstraps from the factory. This differs from full-size pistols that often include multiple grip size options.

Texture and Control

The Glock 43X uses Glock's standard aggressive texturing pattern on the grip sides and front strap. This texture provides reliable purchase even when hands are wet or sweaty during extended shooting sessions.

The front strap texture extends fully down the grip frame. Side texturing covers the primary grip contact areas without being overly abrasive against clothing during concealed carry.

SIG Sauer applies a refined texture pattern to the P365 that balances grip security with comfort. The texture feels less aggressive than Glock's approach but still provides adequate control for most shooting styles.

Texture Comparison:

• Glock 43X: More aggressive, better wet grip

• SIG P365: Smoother, more comfortable for daily carry

Both pistols include front strap texturing and finger grooves molded into the frame design for consistent hand placement.

Shooting Performance and Reliability

Both pistols deliver solid shooting performance with distinct characteristics in trigger mechanics, proven reliability records, and manageable recoil patterns that suit different shooting styles.

Trigger Pull and Safety Features

The Glock 43X features a consistent trigger pull of approximately 5.5 pounds. The trigger breaks cleanly with minimal overtravel. Glock's Safe Action system includes three internal safeties that work automatically.

The trigger mechanism requires no manual safety operation. Shooters get the same trigger pull every time they fire.

The SIG P365 offers a lighter trigger pull around 5 pounds. The trigger has a shorter reset than the Glock. SIG offers models with manual safety for shooters who prefer this feature.

The P365's trigger system provides good feedback. Many shooters find it more responsive than the Glock trigger.

Key Trigger Differences:

• Glock 43X: 5.5 lb pull, longer reset, no manual safety

• SIG P365: 5 lb pull, shorter reset, manual safety option

Reliability and Durability

The Glock 43X has delivered flawless performance in extensive testing with various magazines and extensions. Glock pistols have a proven track record spanning decades of military and police use.

The 43X handles different ammunition types without issues. It runs reliably even when dirty or minimally maintained.

Early SIG P365 models had some reliability concerns. SIG Sauer has since addressed these problems in current production models.

Modern P365 pistols perform reliably in testing. The manufacturer resolved the initial striker and trigger issues through design improvements.

Both pistols now offer dependable performance for daily carry use.

Recoil and Control

The Glock 43X offers better shootability with reduced recoil due to its longer grip length. The additional grip area helps shooters maintain better control during rapid fire.

The pistol's weight distribution contributes to manageable recoil. Most shooters can quickly get back on target for follow-up shots.

The SIG P365's compact size creates slightly more felt recoil. However, the P365 offers outstanding control and accuracy despite its smaller frame.

The P365's grip texture and ergonomics help offset the increased recoil. Shooters adapt quickly to the pistol's handling characteristics.

Both pistols remain controllable for most hand sizes and shooting styles.

Sights, Optics, and Aftermarket Support

Both pistols offer different approaches to sights and optics compatibility. The Glock 43X provides more extensive aftermarket support, while the P365 focuses on built-in modularity.

Factory and Night Sights

The Glock 43X comes with standard polymer sights from the factory. These basic white dot sights work for daylight shooting but lack visibility in low light conditions.

Night sights are available as factory upgrades on some Glock 43X models. Glock offers Ameriglo night sights with tritium inserts that glow in darkness.

The SIG P365 includes SIGLITE night sights as standard equipment. These tritium night sights provide better low-light visibility right out of the box.

Both pistols accept aftermarket sight upgrades. Popular options include:

• Trijicon HD XR sights

• AmeriGlo Spartan Operator sights

• XS Big Dot sights

The P365's factory night sights give it an advantage for buyers who want ready-to-use low-light capability.

Optics Readiness and Upgrades

The Glock 43X requires the MOS (Modular Optic System) version for optics compatibility. The Glock 43X MOS is lighter and provides optics mounting capability.

Standard Glock 43X models need slide milling for red dot installation. This adds cost and requires gunsmith work.

The P365 offers multiple optics readiness options. The P365X and P365XL come with optics-ready slides from the factory.

Both pistols support popular micro red dots including:

• Holosun 407K/507K

• Trijicon RMRcc

• Shield RMSc

The P365's factory optics-ready variants provide easier red dot installation without additional modifications.

Aftermarket Accessories

Aftermarket support heavily favors the Glock 43X. Aftermarket support is more for the Glock, with extensive parts availability.

Glock 43X aftermarket options include:

• Extended magazines (15+ rounds)

• Trigger upgrades

• Barrel replacements

• Slide modifications

The P365 has growing but more limited aftermarket support. Popular upgrades focus on triggers, barrels, and grip modules.

Holster availability is excellent for both pistols. Major manufacturers like Alien Gear, Vedder, and Crossbreed offer multiple options.

Magazine compatibility differs significantly. The Glock accepts Shield Arms 15-round magazines for increased capacity. The P365 uses proprietary SIG magazines with fewer aftermarket alternatives.

The Glock's established platform provides more customization possibilities for enthusiasts who want extensive modifications.

Choosing the Right Concealed Carry Option

The decision between these two concealed carry pistols depends on individual shooting needs, physical considerations, and daily carry requirements. Each pistol offers distinct advantages that suit different users and carry methods.

Factors to Consider

Hand size and grip comfort play a major role in pistol selection. The Glock 43X provides a longer grip that accommodates larger hands better. The SIG P365 offers a more compact grip that works well for smaller hands.

Capacity requirements vary among carriers. Both pistols offer similar round counts, but the P365 achieves this in a smaller frame. This makes it ideal for those who prioritize maximum concealment.

Carry method preferences influence the choice significantly. The P365's compact dimensions make it superior for pocket carry due to its smaller frame. The 43X works better for belt carry methods.

Optics compatibility matters for some users. The Glock 43X MOS variant allows easy red dot mounting. Standard P365 models lack this feature, though upgraded versions offer optics-ready options.

Trigger preferences differ between shooters. Glock's consistent trigger pull appeals to those familiar with the brand. SIG's trigger offers a different feel that some prefer.

Personal Preferences and Lifestyle Fit

Daily activities determine which pistol works better. Office workers who need deep concealment often prefer the P365's smaller profile. Those with active lifestyles may favor the 43X's larger grip for better control.

Clothing choices affect concealment success. The P365's compact size works with tighter-fitting clothes. The 43X requires slightly looser garments but provides more shooting comfort.

Experience level influences the decision. New shooters often benefit from the 43X's larger grip and familiar Glock controls. Experienced carriers may appreciate the P365's advanced engineering and compact design.

Budget considerations extend beyond the initial purchase. Both concealed carry pistols have strong aftermarket support, but accessories and holsters vary in availability and cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

Both pistols offer distinct advantages in size, trigger feel, capacity, and ergonomics that affect daily carry decisions. The Glock 43X provides a longer grip for better control, while the P365 maximizes rounds in a smaller package.

What are the main differences in size and weight between the Glock 43X and the Sig P365?

The Sig P365 measures more compact than the Glock 43X in overall dimensions. The P365 is slightly lighter, making it better suited for pocket carry situations.

The Glock 43X has a taller grip that provides more control surface. This larger frame makes the 43X less ideal for pocket carry compared to the P365.

The weight difference between both guns affects all-day carry comfort. The P365's lighter weight reduces fatigue during extended carry periods.

How do the trigger systems in the Glock 43X and Sig P365 compare?

The Glock 43X uses Glock's safe action trigger system with consistent pull weight. The trigger pull remains consistent, contributing to reliable shooting performance.

The Sig P365 offers a different trigger feel with its own safety mechanism. Both triggers provide reliable performance for defensive shooting needs.

Reset distance and pull weight vary between the two systems. Shooters often prefer one trigger style over the other based on personal experience.

Can you elaborate on the capacity differences between the two models?

Both pistols offer similar standard magazine capacity in their flush-fit magazines. The P365 packs impressive capacity despite its compact size.

Extended magazines are available for both models to increase round count. The Glock 43X accepts aftermarket magazines that boost capacity beyond standard limits.

Magazine compatibility differs between manufacturers. Each platform has its own ecosystem of magazine options and accessories.

What are the notable variations in the grip and ergonomics of both handguns?

The Glock 43X offers a comfortable grip that suits shooters with smaller hands. The longer grip length provides better control during shooting.

The P365 provides an ergonomic grip designed for compact carry. Its ability to suit various hand sizes makes it versatile.

Grip texture differs between both models. The Glock features its signature texture while the P365 uses a different pattern for grip security.

How does the accuracy and shooting performance of the Glock 43X differ from the Sig P365?

The Glock 43X shoots smoothly and performs well for target shooting at longer ranges. Its longer sight radius contributes to accuracy potential.

The P365 offers outstanding control and accuracy in its compact package. Both pistols deliver reliable performance for defensive purposes.

Sight options vary between models. The Glock 43X MOS variant allows easy optics mounting for enhanced accuracy.

What are the specific benefits of choosing the Glock 43X over the Sig P365 for concealed carry?

The Glock 43X provides a larger grip surface for better shooting control. This advantage helps during rapid fire or stressful situations.

The MOS variant offers optics compatibility out of the box. This feature adds versatility for users who want red dot sights.

Glock's proven reliability and simple design appeal to many carriers. The brand's reputation for durability provides confidence in defensive situations.